Geoff Mueller Castlegar News.

Floating the Columbia River is an eye-opening lesson in history, natural geography and fun with Columbia River Power Rafting at the helm.

"I just think it's good for people," says Gary Crombie, CRPR skipper and tour operator. "I bet you less than one per cent of those living in Trail and Castlegar have gone down the river. Crombie skippered last week's promotional tour carrying representatives from local businesses including Red Mountain and The Sandman Hotel as well as a camera and microphone wielding cartel of media types.

Besides this motley crew, Crombie says the majority of his clientele are people from Trail and Castlegar who have someone visiting from out of town.

"They're looking for something to do and instead of just getting into their vehicle and taking a look at the water over in Nelson, they'd rather go down to the river.

The business has been in operation for three years and has taken off recently with increased advertising and through positive word-of-mouth feedback, Crombie says. Although June's wet weather put a damper on business, summer numbers are up slightly from last year. And with high season at the doorstep, Crombie's expecting a busy August through September.

"It cools off nicely in September so for people who don't like the major heat September is a better month for them to go. Whether you like it hot or not there's plenty to see and do on a four hour float regardless of weather. The long-tour, starting on the Lower Arrow Lake at Syringa Park, takes adventurers through the massive locks at the Hugh Keenleyside Dam dropping them 40 feet or more into the upper stretches of the Columbia River.

From there it's a relatively smooth float past historic river sights once navigated by circa 1800s Canadian explorer David Thompson en route to the Pacific Ocean. Crombie, well-versed in local history, provides the narration and is quick to point out natural highlights like the beavers, eagle, bear and osprey that call the river home.

Crombie's 17 foot Avon raft delivers a couch-like ride, but bumpy sections like the Tin Cup rapids, across from Castlegar's Millennium Park, and at Blueberry Creek as well as Waterloo's swirling back eddys give added excitement to the mix.

Excitement borders more on the subdued than scary, but like any piece of moving water, the Columbia has its fair share of dangers. Accordingly, CRPR provides life jackets and recommends using hand grips fastened to the boat's floor through rougher stretches.

"People are often afraid of the river," Crombie adds. "But once they get into these boats they're so nice to operate there's really no tipping."

After the rapids are navigated and tales told, a trip wouldn't be complete without a stop for refreshments and a swim at the sand island - a literal oasis in the middle of the river. It's here where Crombie throws on the tunes and guests can sit back and soak up the sun - a fitting end to a fantastic day on yet another West Kootenay backyard adventure.

CRPR offers two separate river floats. Pick up for both is in Trail with floats starting at Syringa Park and Robson and finishing back in Trail at Gyro Park. Tours run 3-5 hours and range in price from $65 to $85 per person. CRPR's two Zodiak style rafts can accommodate up to 15 rafters.

For more information on Columbia River Power Rafting tours check out their website at www.powerraft.com or contact Crombie at 250-364-2922.